Nearly 5,000 runners gathered at March 10 Square in Buon Ma Thuot Ward on June 21 for the Buon Ma Thuot Robusta Half Marathon VTV8 2026, held under the theme “Running Through Vietnam’s Coffee Capital”. Dak Lak PPC Vice Chairman, comrade Nguyen Thien Van attended the event.

Recognised as Dak Lak’s largest sports, cultural along with tourism event, the race was jointly organised by the Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Dak Lak September 2 Import-Export One Member Co., Ltd. (Simexco Dak Lak), alongside VTV8. Participation reached nearly 5,000 athletes, including about 1,800 competitors from provinces and cities nationwide, together with international runners.

Dak Lak PPC Vice Chairman, comrade Nguyen Thien Van extending a warm welcome to runners participating in the Buon Ma Thuot Robusta Half Marathon VTV8 2026.

Notable participants included Miss Vietnam Tourism Ambassador 2024, Ms. Dinh Thi Hoa, SEA Games 28 boxing champion, Mr. Truong Dinh Hoang, SEA Games 32 kickboxing champion, Mr. Nguyen Hoang, alongside numerous prominent names in Vietnam’s running community.

Competitors took part in three race categories: 5km, 10km combined with 21km. Carefully designed routes passed through central streets and distinctive cultural landmarks showcasing the unique identity of the Central Highlands, delivering a memorable while inspiring race experience.

Welcoming runners to Vietnam’s coffee capital, Vice Chairman, comrade Nguyen Thien Van emphasised that the event represented more than a meaningful community sporting activity. It also provided a valuable platform for promoting Buon Ma Thuot’s image, highlighting its unique coffee culture, and introducing Dak Lak’s tourism potential to domestic coupled with international visitors.

Top performers in the men’s 10km race receiving awards from organisers.

Following intense competition, Ms. Nie Nguyet, Ms. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Lan together with Ms. Le Thi Ha claimed first place in the women’s 5km, 10km and 21km categories, respectively. On the men’s side, Mr. Duong Thuan, Mr. Pham Ngoc Phan along with Mr. Trinh Minh Tam secured victories across corresponding distances.

Age-group awards were also presented in the men’s and women’s half-marathon division, covering four categories: under 30, 30-39, 40-49, as well as 50 years and above.

Translated by HAI LOAN